Exodus 5:9

Authorized King James Version

Let there more work be laid upon the men, that they may labour therein; and let them not regard vain words.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תִּכְבַּ֧ד
be laid
to be heavy, i.e., in a bad sense (burdensome, severe, dull) or in a good sense (numerous, rich, honorable); causatively, to make weighty (in the same
#2
הָֽעֲבֹדָ֛ה
Let there more work
work of any kind
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֖ים
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#5
וְיַֽעֲשׂוּ
that they may labour
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
בָ֑הּ
H0
#7
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#8
יִשְׁע֖וּ
therein and let them not regard
to gaze at or about (properly, for help); by implication, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed (as looking around in amazement) or bewil
#9
בְּדִבְרֵי
words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#10
שָֽׁקֶר׃
vain
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Exodus. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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